Ethiopian Embassy Showcases Tourism Potential, Strengthens Pakistan-Ethiopia People-to-People Ties
Islamabad, The Gulf Observer The Embassy of Ethiopia in Islamabad hosted a tourism promotion event aimed at highlighting Ethiopia’s vast tourism potential while fostering stronger people-to-people and bilateral ties between Pakistan and Ethiopia.
The event brought together diplomats, travel agents, media representatives, and digital influencers to explore opportunities for enhanced tourism cooperation between the two countries.
Advisor and Coordinator to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on Tourism, Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, attended the event as the chief guest, while Additional Secretary (Africa) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hamid Asghar Khan, participated as the guest of honour.
Welcoming the participants, Ethiopian Ambassador to Pakistan Dr. Oumer Hussien Oba underscored the deep historical and cultural ties between Pakistan and Ethiopia, recalling the ancient Kingdom of Habesha, which provided refuge to early Muslims during the First Hijra.
The ambassador said the historic Al-Nejashi Mosque and the legacy of Hazrat Bilal Habeshi continue to symbolize the enduring spiritual and brotherly relationship between the peoples of the two countries.
Presenting Ethiopia as the “Land of Origins” and one of Africa’s fastest-growing tourism destinations, Ambassador Oba highlighted the country’s diverse attractions, including world-class resorts, national parks, and modern tourism infrastructure developed under the leadership of Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed.
He also noted that Addis Ababa has emerged as Africa’s premier diplomatic hub and the headquarters of the African Union, hosting more than 150 international summits last year.
Highlighting improved connectivity between the two countries, the ambassador said Ethiopian Airlines’ direct flights between Karachi and Addis Ababa have significantly enhanced travel opportunities for Pakistani tourists, businesspersons, and investors.
Addressing the gathering, Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan commended the Ethiopian Embassy for organizing the initiative, describing it as an important step toward strengthening people-to-people contacts and promoting tourism cooperation.
He also praised Ethiopian Airlines for bridging the connectivity gap between Pakistan and Africa and announced a reciprocal influencer exchange programme under which Pakistani digital content creators will visit Ethiopia, while Ethiopian and African influencers will be invited to Pakistan through complimentary tourism packages to promote both destinations.
Speaking on the occasion, Additional Secretary (Africa) Hamid Asghar Khan expressed appreciation for Ethiopia’s launch of direct flight operations to Pakistan, describing the air link as one of the most significant milestones in strengthening bilateral relations.
Recalling his recent visit to Ethiopia, he lauded the country’s remarkable achievements in energy production, rapid urban development, scenic tourism destinations, and the impressive progress made in the aviation sector.
The event concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to expanding tourism cooperation, enhancing connectivity, and promoting greater cultural and economic engagement between Pakistan and Ethiopia.
